US20140066230A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20140066230A1
Application number: US13/826,921
Authority: US
Inventors: Vo Huynh Bennett
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-08-31
Filing date: 2013-03-14
Publication date: 2014-03-06
Also published as: WO2014035503A1

Abstract

A tennis training apparatus comprises a balanced rod having an upper segment, mid-section, and lower segment. One or more of the training apparatuses may be secured separately along a tennis net tape with the upper segment extending above the tape as a target. When struck by a tennis ball, the upper segment pendulums back and forth while providing a ringing sound. The upper segment is further divided into a plurality of regions which correlate to different sections of a tennis racket. The training apparatuses may be moved to desired locations along the net tape to create different targets, gaps, and spacings for the players to practice all tennis skills during practice matches or drills. A stand-alone version of the training apparatus need not be attached to a tennis net, but pivots on a stand which provides adjustable pendulum motion, and can be utilized for a variety of non-tennis training exercises.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a tennis training apparatus which can be used by the players during a regular practice match or drills to condition the players to develop a full/complete game, which includes power, finesse, accuracy, directions, variety, different net height control, and countless shot combinations. In one embodiment, the tennis training apparatus comprises a balanced rod having an upper segment, mid-section, and lower segment. One or more of the training apparatuses may be secured separately along a tennis net tape with the upper segment extending above the tape as a target. When struck by a tennis ball, the upper segment pendulums back and forth while providing a ringing sound. The upper segment is further divided into a plurality of regions which correlate to different sections of a tennis racket, thereby creating intuitive association in a player's mind. The training apparatuses may be moved to desired locations along the net tape to create different targets, gaps, and spacings for the players to practice all tennis skills during practice matches or drills. A stand-alone version of the training apparatus need not be attached to a tennis net, but pivots on a stand which provides adjustable pendulum motion, and can be utilized for a variety of non-tennis training exercises.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the game of tennis, the objective is to hit the tennis ball over the net and make it land inside the opponent's baseline and sidelines. Players who are able to perform this act consistently while making it difficult for the opponent to do the same will generally win the match. Currently available training devices typically utilize targets that are placed on the opposite side of the tennis court from the player hitting the ball. Such targets are often orange plastic cones or round colored dots which provide visual targets for where the tennis ball should land, but do not provide visual targets for where a tennis ball should pass over the net. Since the net is the first obstacle (not the baseline or sidelines) for the tennis ball, there ideally should be more emphasis on shot placement over the net. Furthermore, tennis conditioning and practices are often repetitive and monotonous, and it would be beneficial to players for training exercises to be able to add excitement, interest and fun in order to increase the effectiveness of the training.

One previously known teaching method is to lean a squeezee next to the net and place an empty tennis can over the squeezee handle as a target over the net to emphasize the importance of hitting the ball low over the net with power. This method has many benefits, but does not go far enough in developing the player's overall skills in simulating shot combinations during match play, or in inspiring interest, fun and excitement.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,042,237 issued to Moraru discloses a tennis practice device which incorporates a series of telescoping shafts mounted to a support surface, wherein one of the shafts carries a tennis ball and telescopes into the other shafts when the ball is struck by a tennis racket. The ball on the shaft then returns to the original position for a player to hit the tennis ball again. This device is of limited use and capabilities as it does not allow for a player to practice top spin or underspin type shots as the ball is physically attached to the shaft and provides for no rotation. Furthermore, the device does not allow for more than one player to practice at the same time and rally the ball across the net.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,116,437 issued to Johnson discloses another tennis training device with a series of horizontally extending target sections which provides an output signal representing the accuracy of placement of a player's shot. The rating apparatus has an assembly that blocks the path of a tennis ball and records a limited range of ball height contact. The assembly therefore does not allow the tennis ball to travel to the opposite side for players to rally or play practice matches. Nor does the assembly allow for players to see where the ball has landed on an opposite side of the court. Further, the horizontal target zones do not provide a player with a way to practice left or right shot placement.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,231,572 issued to Thornton provides a target for practicing tennis, wherein the target includes a frame mounted to the top of a tennis net, and having an opening through which a tennis ball may be driven by a player. The frame is attached to a pair of vertical posts which are interwoven within the meshes of the tennis net and secured with hooks adjacent to the net tape. Depending upon the height and width of the opening within the frame, the target device may provide a rather limited range of shots available to a player that may be considered a “good” shot. Further, the use of the posts and hooks may lead to unnecessary wear and tear and eventual damage to the tennis net, which can be costly to replace.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,696,471 issued to McGrath discloses a net-mountable guide for tennis practice purposes, with a mounting member adapted to be removably secured to the top of a tennis net, and a circular shaped target member approximately the size of a conventional tennis ball connected to the mounting member so that the target member is slightly above the top of the tennis net. The device puts an imbalanced weight and pressure on top of the tennis net tape, and is unable to support taller and heavier targets since it does not have a long counter balance bottom part, and any weight imbalances over the net would tilt the target object over to one side of the net or the other. Further, due to the small target size, the device cannot provide for a full range of possible tennis shots and shot combinations normally possible during a point in a tennis match.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,732,382 issued to Ratner discloses a tennis training device having a rod secured vertically above a tennis court net, with the rod having three successive length sections, each of a different color, to guide a player regarding the height of the ball as it passes over the net. A support rod is attached to the rod, wherein the combined rod and support rod is inserted through the tennis net and has an end of the support rod abutting the ground to support the rod in a vertical orientation. The device has limited simultaneously available physical and virtual targets, places unnecessary strain on the interwoven threads of the tennis net, and does not provide sufficient movement and sound to help maintain a player's focus and interest during practices.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,911,442 issued to Monroe discloses a tennis ball training guide wherein an actual sized tennis ball is secured to an axially adjustable elongated mounted stem. The stem is secured to a clamping device which is adapted for connection to the top edge of a tennis net. This particular apparatus is limited to aiming at a single target at a time, and fails to simulate an actual point played where a tennis ball would need to travel over various areas and heights of the tennis net. Further, the device disclosed in Monroe may be prone to slipping off the top of the tennis net when struck by a tennis ball with a heavy force.

What is therefore needed is an inexpensive, lightweight, and portable tennis training apparatus that may be easily attached and secured to a tennis net tape without damaging the net tape. Further, it is also desired that such a tennis training apparatus be able to provide benefit to a tennis player's game by creating virtual gaps and spacings over the tennis net to facilitate practice goals for a tennis player to practice consistently making a wide variety of shots across the net. Further, it is desired that such an apparatus be able to provide benefit to tennis players' game either with or without striking the apparatus with a tennis ball.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a tennis training apparatus which can be used by the players during a regular practice match or drills to condition the players to develop a full/complete game, which includes power, finesse, accuracy, directions, variety, different net height control, and countless shot combinations. One or more training apparatuses each having an upper segment, mid-section, and lower segment may be used to help improve the overall game and skills of players, and may be secured via the mid-section to a tennis net tape with the upper segment extending above the tape as a target. When struck by a tennis ball, the upper segment pendulums back and forth while providing a ringing sound via a sound generator attached to the lower segment. The upper segment is further divided into a plurality of regions which correlate to different sections of a tennis racket. The training apparatuses may be moved to desired locations along the net tape to create different targets, gaps, and spacings for the players to practice all tennis skills during practice matches or drills. A stand-alone version of the training apparatus need not be attached to a tennis net, but pivots on a stand which provides adjustable pendulum motion, and can be utilized for a variety of non-tennis training exercises.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a view of a set of tennis training apparatuses of the present invention shown attached to a tennis net tape.

FIG. 2 is a view of a single tennis training apparatus.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the tennis training apparatus having its upper segment correlated to a standard tennis racket.

FIG. 4 is a view of another embodiment of the tennis training apparatus having an alternative configuration for the upper segment as compared to a standard tennis racket.

FIG. 5 illustrates an attachment strap for attaching the tennis training apparatus to a tennis net tape or other substantially rigid structure.

FIG. 6 illustrates the mid-section of a tennis training apparatus as attached to a rigid structure such as a tennis net tape via the attachment strap.

FIG. 7 provides a close up view of the lower segments of a set of training apparatuses, illustrating the use of written text thereon.

FIG. 8 illustrates a sound generator such as a bell attached to the lower end of a lower segment of the tennis training apparatus.

FIG. 9 provides an alternate view of the bell attached to the lower segment of the training apparatus.

FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of the tennis training apparatus having optional training extensions attached.

FIG. 11 illustrates a stand-alone embodiment of the tennis training apparatus having target and training extensions attached.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of the stand-alone tennis training apparatus having multiple training extensions attached.

FIG. 13 provides an exploded view of the stand-alone training apparatus.

FIG. 14 shows a side view of a multiple layer base of the stand-alone embodiment of the apparatus shown inFIG. 12 tilted to an angle of approximately 150 degrees from horizontal, without completely falling over on its side.

FIG. 15 illustrates a frontal view of the pivoting mechanism for the stand-alone training apparatus.

FIG. 16 illustrates an angled side view of the stand-alone training apparatus, illustrating a preferred method for insertion of pivot rods through double barrel holes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. Additionally, as used herein, the term “substantially” is to be construed as a term of approximation.

InFIG. 1, a set oftennis training apparatuses100 is shown attached to a tennis net for training purposes. In a preferred embodiment, a set oftraining apparatuses100 may include afirst training apparatus102, asecond training apparatus104, and/or athird training apparatus106. In other embodiments of the invention, a greater or fewer number of training apparatuses may be utilized depending upon the training objectives of a player or coach. For example, as few as asingle apparatus100 or as many as ten may be concurrently used for training purposes. Eachtraining apparatus100 is shown attached near amid-section120 of theapparatus100 to the top of a standard tennis net. More specifically, thetraining apparatuses100 are attached to the tennisnet tape160 of a tennis net.

Next, atFIG. 2, an individualtennis training apparatus100 is shown. Thetraining apparatus100 is generally cylindrical or rod shaped and may be comprised of anupper segment110, a mid-section120, alower segment130, anattachment strap140, and asound generator150. The mid-section120 divides theupper segment110 andlower segment130, and may be used in conjunction with theattachment strap140 to attach thetraining apparatus100 to a tennisnet tape160 such that theupper segment110 sits above the net and is highly visible to players, and thelower segment130 is situated below the top of the net. Thesound generator150 is attached to thelower segment130 and is preferably attached at the lower end thereof.

As shown inFIG. 2, theupper segment110 may be further divided into distinct regions, such as atop region114,center region116, and abottom region118. In a preferred embodiment of the training apparatus, theupper segment110 is sized to approximate the length of a standard tennis racket, with the current standard length of a legal sized tennis racket being approximately 27 to 29 inches. Thus,training apparatus100 has an overall length of approximately 49 inches, with theupper segment110 being approximately 27 to 29 inches in length, and thelower segment130 being approximately 20 to 22 inches in length.

Theupper segment110 may be easily adjusted to match the 27 to 29 inches of a standard tennis racket length. A reason for the upper segment being 27 to 29 inches in length is to associate the upper segment to the individual player's tennis racket so that the player may quickly familiarize with the height of theupper segment110. Also, theupper segment110 being approximately 27 to 29 inches in height provides an ideal height above the net for which to train/teach players an offensive power game. To adjust theupper segment110 to 29 inches, a player or coach may raise theupper segment110 above the net another 2 inches before strapping thetraining apparatus100 to the tennisnet tape160. Additionally, theupper segment110 may be provided with a variety of colors to further enhance the aesthetic appeal of thetraining apparatus100, as well as to provide for different objectives when a plurality of thetraining devices100 are used simultaneously. Such uses for this preferred embodiment ofmulti-colored training apparatus100 will be further described below.

Theapparatus100 has alower segment130 which is positioned below the top of the tennis net when theapparatus100 is attached to a tennisnet tape160. Preferably, thelower segment130 is approximately 21 inches in length, and has a black coloring to camouflage or otherwise blend in with standard black tennis net strings, adding to the aesthetic appeal of thetraining apparatus100. Thelower segment130 provides a counter weight to keep theupper segment110 vertically upright when thetraining apparatus100 is at a rest or ready position as well as to assist theupper segment110 to return back to the rest or ready position after a tennis ball strikes theupper segment110. The length oflower segment130 is further controlled such that the bottom of thetraining apparatus100 remains elevated above the ground so as to allow for the pendulum or swinging motion. Furthermore, thelower segment110 provides for connection of theattachment strap140, asound generator150, as well as providing an area for written rules, challenges, and notes. The length of thelower segment110 further contributes to the overall aesthetic appearance of thetraining apparatus100, as well as ensuring that thetraining apparatus100 may easily be stowed inside the trunk of a car.

Thetraining apparatus100 may be preferably formed from a material which is sturdy, durable, properly weighted, and relatively inexpensive to maximize overall portability, effectiveness, availability, and cost of thetraining apparatus100. It is the careful balance of the materials used as well as control of the overall length of thetraining apparatus100 that allows for the unique pendulum qualities of thetraining apparatus100. This provides for a fun and engaging interactive tennis training device not presently available. Preferably, the training apparatus may be formed of a lightweight wood, such as poplar. However, thetraining apparatus100 may be formed from any other suitable material which allows for substantially the same performance as wood, such as a durable plastic, or even a lightweight metal such as aluminum. Different materials may affect the pendulum qualities of theapparatus100, and may also affect the “feel” when struck by a tennis ball.

In a preferred embodiment, theapparatus100 may be formed of poplar wood that is coated with primer and one or more layers of paint, as well as one or more layers of polyurethane. The apparatus may be lightly sanded to achieve a smooth appearance and feel, with the multiple layers providing a protective surface resistant to chipping, scratching, and other weather induced damage.

As can be seen in the present figure, theapparatus100 is designed to be struck by a tennis ball during practice or play and, accordingly, pendulum back and forth to create a visual and audial feedback for a player. Theapparatus100 may pendulum forward over 120 degrees (past parallel to ground level) from the neutral upright position, and may pendulum backward less than 40 degrees due to the net strings blocking much of the pendulum motion. Additional features of the invention will be further disclosed below in the operation section.

Turning now toFIG. 3, therein is shown a set oftennis training apparatuses100 next to astandard tennis racket50. As can be seen in the current figure, theupper segment110 of eachapparatus100 is sized to be approximately the same length as astandard tennis racket50. Furthermore, the set oftraining apparatuses100 have varyingupper segment110 heights that correlate to different sized tennis rackets, such as adult and junior sizes.Training apparatus100 associates a standardtennis racket grip52,throat54, and face56 to three regions of theupper segment110 to improve player accuracy, height control, and ball direction to an even more fine-tuned level. That is, the various regions ofupper segment110 correspond to and allow for a player to visually associate each region to a portion of thetennis racket50. For example, astandard tennis racket50 has agrip52 that is approximately 8 inches long, athroat54 that is approximately 5 inches long, and aface56 that is approximately 14 inches long. Thus, thethroat54 oftennis racket50 may be associated with thetop region114, thegrip52 may be associated with thebottom region118, and theface56 may be associated with themiddle region116. Each of the

regions

114,116, and118 may be visually marked off from an adjacent region, such as by using a colored one-inch tape. In alternative embodiments of the invention, theupper segment110 may be made longer or shorter than 29 and 27 inches, respectively; however, in preferred embodiments, theupper segment110 is between 27 and 29 inches in length.

Next atFIG. 4, an alternative embodiment of thetraining apparatus100 is shown compared to a commonly available 27″ tennis racket wherein theupper segment110 has different length top, center, and bottom regions from the apparatuses shown inFIG. 3. That is, the top, center, and bottom regions are not constrained to always correspond to the grip, face, and throat of arespective tennis racket50, but may be adjusted depending upon a coach or player's needs or training objectives. Thus, in the embodiment shown inFIG. 4, thetop region114 corresponds to thegrip52, themiddle region116 corresponds to thethroat54, and thebottom region118 corresponds to theface56. Other variations of the top114, middle116, andbottom regions118 are also possible within the scope of the present invention, for instance corresponding thetop region114 or bottom region to theface56 of thetennis racket50.

Next, atFIG. 5, anattachment strap140 is shown for removably attaching thetraining apparatus100 to a tennisnet tape160, thereby holding thetraining apparatus100 in a vertical upright position when theapparatus100 is at rest. As shown inFIG. 5, theattachment strap140 has yet to be secured onto theapparatus100. Once attached, theattachment strap140 utilizes the firmness of thenet tape160 to allow thetraining apparatus100 to oscillate or pendulum back and forth when theupper segment110 is struck by a tennis ball, with theupper segment110 andlower segment130 alternatively oscillating or swinging about a horizontal axis defined by the tennisnet tape160.

Theattachment strap140 may be fabricated of a material that minimizes wear and tear on the tennis net or net strings, such as Velcro® fabric. Benefits provided by theattachment strap140 include allowing for quick and easy setup and takedown oftraining apparatus100, and further allows for thetraining apparatus100 to be moved to numerous positions along the length of the tennisnet tape160 during a practice session. Additionally, theattachment strap140 may allow a player or coach to make adjustments to the height of theupper segment110 in order to increase or decrease the amount which theupper segment110 extends above thenet tape160.

Theattachment strap140 is preferably constructed using one or more Velcro® fasteners comprised of anarm strip142 and awrap strip144. Other materials may also be utilized to attach theapparatus100 to thenet tape160. As is commonly known, Velcro® fasteners work by the combination of small hooks and loops. When the hooks and loops are pressed together, the hooks catch in the loops, forming a secure, yet detachable bond. In a preferred embodiment, thearm strip142 may be 27″×¾″, having hooks on one side and loops on an opposite side. Thewrap strip144 may be 9″×4″ having loops on one side and an adhesive on the opposite side. Other preferred sizes of thearm strip142 and wrapstrip144 are also contemplated within the scope of the present invention.

The Velcro® arm strip142 and wrapstrip144 are preferably connected together via the adhesive on the backside of thewrap strip144 to make the two strips function as one. To connect thearm strip142 and wrapstrip144 together, wrapstrip144 is placed on a flat surface/table with the longer 9″ sides in a horizontal position and with the adhesive side facing up. The hook side ofarm strip142 is then aligned parallel and approximately 1″ from the vertical side ofwrap strip144, with the bottom edge ofarm strip142 lined up flush with the bottom edge ofwrap strip144. The purpose of placing thearm strip142 in this position is to ensure a firm hold between thetraining apparatus100 andnet tape160 as well as to ensure that the frontside of thetraining apparatus100 shows an uninterrupted Velcro® surface so as not to detract from the aesthetic appeal of the frontside of thetraining apparatus100. This connection of thearm strip142 and wrapstrip144 results in the creation of theattachment strap140 which will be wrapped and connected permanently to themid-section120 ofapparatus100.

The assembledattachment strap140 is then aligned adjacent themid-section120 of thetraining apparatus100, and the adhesive back of thewrap strip144 is carefully wrapped around the mid-section120 such that thearm strip142 is secured between thewrap strip144 andmid-section120, and extends upward toward theupper segment110. To ensure that the various regions of the upper segment may correlate to the appropriate lengths of the grip, throat, and face of a standard tennis racket, the top edge of thewrap strip144 may be located approximately 27″ from the top end of theupper segment110. Accordingly, thewrap strip144 is preferably connected at the mid-section120 and extending downwardly into thelower segment130.

Turning now toFIG. 6, a portion of thetraining apparatus100 is shown wherein theapparatus100 has been secured to a tennisnet tape160 via theattachment strap140. To secure thetraining apparatus100 to the tennisnet tape160, theapparatus100 is placed adjacent a front side of a tennis net in a vertical orientation such that the mid-section120 is adjacent to the tennisnet tape160 and only theupper segment110 is visible above the tennis net. Thearm strip142 of theattachment strap140 is fed on one side of theapparatus100, over the top of the tennisnet tape160, and allowed to hang off the back side of the tennisnet tape160. Thearm strip142 is then looped around the tennisnet tape160 and threaded through the holes within the net to the front side of the net. Thearm strip142 is then criss-crossed over thetraining apparatus100 and tennisnet tape160 to repeat the process on an opposite side of theapparatus100. Because thearm strip142 has both hooks on one side and loops on the opposite side, the criss-crossing of the strip has the effect of creating bonded layers each time thearm strip142 comes into contact with itself or thewrap strip144. This process is repeated until the entire length of thearm strip142 is utilized to form a secure and pivotable connection between thetraining apparatus100 and the tennisnet tape160. After some experience, a player or coach may be able to attach the apparatus to a tennisnet tape160 in a short period of time, and even less time to detach theapparatus100 from thenet tape160.

If it is desired to adjust the height of theupper segment110, then all that needs to be done is for the player or coach to move thetraining apparatus100 up or down by the desired height prior to performing the attachment procedures. The present invention thus allows the players or coaches to quickly adjust the height of theupper segment110 or alternatively move thetraining apparatus100 to different locations along the tennisnet tape160 in order to provide various shot combinations and targets to improve the player's tennis skills.

For transport and storage purposes, thearm strip142 may be lined up flush with the bottom edge of thewrap strip144 and pressed against either thewrap strip144 or itself to prevent thearm strip142 from otherwise obstructing or interfering with the other arm strips142 ofnearby apparatuses100 or some other object.

Theattachment strap140 allows thetraining apparatus100 to pendulum forward and backward, and back to a ready position when struck. Furthermore, the criss-crossing of thearm strip142 allows for stabilization of thetraining apparatus100 in a vertically upright position and encourages a back and forth pendulum motion to utilize the force and energy of the tennis ball striking theupper segment110. The use of theattachment strap140 provides for a safe method of securing theapparatus100 to the tennis tape, and will not damage the threads of the net or tennis net tape. Also, because theattachment strap140 does not require weaving of thetraining apparatus100 through the square holes in the net strings and does not rely on the net thread structure to withstand and transfer energy from the moving tennis ball to the tennis net, the present invention reduces wear and tear on the tennis net.

Next, atFIG. 7, a close up view of alower segment130 of atraining apparatus100 is shown. Thelower segment130 of one ormore training apparatuses100 may have writtentext132 provided to further enhance the training experience of a tennis player.Such text132 may include rules, dimensions, challenges, and notes, and be written in a longitudinal direction of thetraining apparatus100. Preferably, the writtentext132 is provided in white lettering and on black background labels to make for easy readability and to somewhat blend in with the preferred black color of thelower segment130. The writtentext132 is preferably attached on the backside of thelower segment130 so as to keep the front side of thetraining apparatus100 looking sleek, simple, and inspiring.

In a preferred embodiment of thetraining apparatus100, the writtentext132 may be instructions for utilizing thetraining apparatus100 and may be titled “New Rules/Dimensions for Match Play” with an example of such written text as:

New Rules/Dimensions Added for Match Play:

- 1) Reward—Hit the 1R with tennis ball during point to win point automatically.
- 2) If agreed by both players/teams, the sticks can be moved to different locations during the changeovers or odd number games.

Furthermore, thetraining apparatus100 may include additional instructional writtentext132 directed to “Challenge and Results Comparison for Practice Drills,” and “Notes for Bottom, Middle, and Top Region Targets,” also located on thelower segment130. An example of such text may be as shown:

Challenge and Results Comparison for Practice Drills:

- 1) Challenge: How many 1R hits can you or your group make in 20 tries?
- 2) Results Comparison: 0=Average, 1=Good, 2=Awesome, 3=Beastly.

Notes for Bottom, Middle, and Top Targets:

- 1) Bot˜For volley exchanges and low contact approach shots.
- 2) Mid˜For offensive shots and short angle shots.
- 3) Top˜For drop shots, medium topspin and medium pace shots.
- 4) Over 1R & 2R˜For heavy topspin and for defensive shots.

Other writtentext132 may further be incorporated into preferred embodiments of thetraining apparatus100 in order for players/coaches to fully utilize thetraining apparatus100. Furthermore, the convenient location of the writtentext132 on thetraining apparatus100 ensures that players may always be able to reference the rules, challenges, and notes for thetraining apparatus100 at any time during training. The inclusion of the writtentext132 on the body of thetraining apparatus100 may stimulate players/coaches to utilize thetraining apparatuses100 in new, creative ways which may further enhance the training experience. Different texts may be located on different training apparatuses, such as first, second and

third apparatuses

102,104 and106, respectively, with eachapparatus100 having a differently coloredupper segment110 to allow for easy recognition of different training objectives and goals associated with eachapparatus100.

Referring now toFIGS. 8 and 9, asound generator150 is shown attached to the bottom end of alower segment130. Thesound generator150 may be any instrument that provides audial feedback when a tennis ball makes contact with theupper segment110. A preferred embodiment of thesound generator150 may be a small, aesthetically-pleasing metal bell152 attached to the bottom end of thelower segment130 such that when theupper segment110 is struck by a tennis ball, thebell152 will respond with a pleasant ringing sound with the sound conditioning and encouraging players to feel anticipation, excitement, and to otherwise remain focused upon the training objective. The resulting pendulum motion of thetraining apparatus100 and ringing sound works best when a tennis ball strikes theupper segment110 of thetraining apparatus100 from a front side of the tennis net; however, a similar but less pronounced pendulum effect will still occur when theupper segment110 is struck from the backside of the tennis net. A ringing sound may be heard even if theupper segment110 is lightly touched or barely grazed by a moving tennis ball. A sound may be heard when a tennis ball strikes the upper segment from the frontside, backside or from any other angle.

Preferably, thebell152 is attached to thelower segment130 by way of a mount comprising a drill hole,screw156, and one or moremetallic washers158. As shown inFIG. 8, thescrew156 may be used to attach thebell152 to a side of thelower segment130 with the washers for providing a small distance between thelower segment130 and thebell152 as well as to add a counterweight to the bottom end oflower segment130. In an alternative embodiment shown inFIG. 9, the screw may be used to attach thebell152 directly to the bottom of thelower segment130, with thewashers158 optionally located between the bell and thelower segment130 or located between the head of the screw.

Aclapper154 resides within thebell152 to provide the sound generation, and may be concentrically located within the recess of the bell, or may be located somewhat offset from the center of thebell152. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 9, the clapper has been offset from center, and a protective resin added over thescrew156 andwasher158 to help secure thescrew156 and otherwise provide protection to the screw andclapper154. Further, as shown inFIG. 9, the clapper has been installed via a wire loop threaded through theclapper154. This configuration allows for faster reaction time of thebell152 when theupper segment110 is struck by a tennis ball, as opposed to more conventional clapper attachment methods. Additionally, the use of the wire loop results in theclapper154 being less prone to becoming stuck within the internal recess of thebell152. Optionally, a mute clip (not shown) may also be clipped onto thebell152 to prevent theclapper bell154 from creating noise during storage or transport of thetraining apparatus100, or at the player's or coach's discretion.

Continuing next toFIG. 10, a series of optionaltraining apparatus extensions170 are shown.Apparatus extensions170 may be made of a soft, lightweight material such as a sponge or plastic foam and is generally cylindrically shaped with a longitudinal cavity for insertion of thetraining apparatus100. In one embodiment, theextensions170 may be simply used to extend the width of theupper segment110 of atraining apparatus100, as shown on theright-most extension170. The use of the extension provides a greater target area for a player attempting to strike theupper segment110 oftraining apparatus100. Particularly for younger players, the use of theextensions170 may greatly aid in providing a player with easier targets to aim for and motivation to continue training objectives. To increase the challenge, or when other training objectives are desired, theextensions170 may simply be removed.

In another embodiment, as shown on the center andleft-most extensions170, theextension170 may be used to increase the height of theupper segment110 such that the overall length of theupper segment110 becomes approximately the same length as two or even three standard tennis rackets. As shown inFIG. 10, thecenter extension170 has effectively increased the height of theupper segment110 to two tennis racket lengths, and theleft-most extension170 has effectively increased the height of theupper segment110 to three tennis racket lengths. In the case of the left-most extension, it may be necessary to insert a dowel rod in the cavities of theextensions170 to maintain the rigid appearance of theoverall training apparatus100. Consequently, after attachment of the double extension, the weight and height of theupper segment110 may be imbalanced compared to thelower segment130. Thus, an offsetweight172 may be added to thelower segment130 to offset the added weight and height of theextension170. The addition of offsetweight172 onlower segment130 may comprise many different materials such as an enlarger, a metal chain, and/or a heavy rubber tube. No additional offsetweight172 is needed when attaching only onefull extension170, as seen in the center extension.

Separate regions

174,176,178 and184,186,188 may be defined for theextension170, in addition to the previously described regions for theupper segment110. In this embodiment, the extended length of theupper segment110 created by theextensions170 not only increases the width and overall targetable area of theupper segment110, but also provides for new exercises and challenges to be implemented by a player or coach. For example, if a player aims a tennis ball directly at a middle region of theextension170, and provides topspin and less power, the resulting groundstroke will likely land the tennis ball within a few feet in front of the baseline and, because of the high bounce from the topspin and steeper trajectory, push an attacking opponent back behind the baseline. Thus, in this instance, theextension170 provides an opportunity for a player to practice a defensive shot.

The various lengths of theextension170 create visually identifiable targets for a player, with eachdiffering extension170 corresponding to a multiple of racket lengths. As understood previously, theupper segment110 of theapparatus100 is visually associated with the length of asingle tennis racket50. This distance may be referred to as 1R, and is indicated by the dotted line A. Accordingly, an apparatus having a first set ofextensions170, as seen fitted on thecenter apparatus100, has a height above the net of two tennis rackets, or 2R, and is indicated by the dotted line B. Moreover, the left-most set ofextensions170 has an above the net height of three tennis rackets, or 3R, and is indicated by the dotted line C. In addition to providing more verticality to thevarious apparatuses100, theextensions170 additionally provide important additional horizontal targets that do not have physical characteristics but can be seen via the horizontal matching of the different regions of the apparatuses.

For example, horizontal 1R, 2R and 3R lines visually created by the apparatuses100 (not the actual physical targets of theapparatus100 and its extensions170) help players to transition from an offensive shot to a defensive shot and vice versa. Thus, the dotted lines A, B and C represent the horizontal regions of the 1R, 2R, and 3R, or even an imaginary 4R region, that are virtual targets created by standard tennis racket lengths. A player or coach may therefore use these regions to practice various drills and shots for achieving a variety of training goals.

Next, atFIG. 11, an alternative, a stand-alone embodiment of atraining apparatus200 is shown in a substantially upright, neutral or resting position. The stand-alone training apparatus200 is comprised of a modified version of theapparatus100 to allow for use within thetraining apparatus200 and astand220. Additional parts may be attached to theapparatus200 to further enhance the stand-alone functionality of theapparatus200. Thetraining apparatus100 located withinapparatus200 is also comprised of anupper segment110, a mid-section120, alower segment130, and asound generator150. In one embodiment, the stand-alone apparatus200 may be comprised of theapparatus100 having a pivot mechanism201 (shown inFIG. 15) mounted to the mid-section, thepivot mechanism201 including a pair ofmetallic slots202 mounted laterally on opposite sides of theapparatus100 atmid-section120, with a pair ofpivot rods204 inserted therethrough. Thepivot rods204 are pivotally connected to thestand220, with thestand220 mounted on top of a stack ofbase plates240. In other embodiments, thepivot mechanism201 may further include an adhesive material or clamping device for mounting themetallic slots202 to themid-section120 of theapparatus100. In additional embodiments, anattachment strap140 may be provided at the mid-section120 of theapparatus100 so that theapparatus100 may be removed from thestand220 and attached to a tennisnet tape160.

Through the use of thestand220 and attachedbase plates240, a player may be able to utilize thetraining apparatus200 in substantially the same fashion as anapparatus100 that has been connected to a tennisnet tape160. Further, as shown inFIG. 11, aremovable target210 may be located on theupper segment110 of theapparatus100 for use in a variety of training exercises. Such exercises may be tennis training exercises, or may be related to other sports, such as softball, football, or even boxing, and includes any sports where accurate placement or striking of a ball or other object is required. Theapparatus200 thus provides benefits similar to those provided by theapparatus100 without being dependent on usage of a standard tennis net, and plays a complimentary role in helping the players visualize the three dimensional (3D) virtual targets that are between the net and the players. Theapparatus200 may further be utilized for off-court, non-tennis physical fitness, conditioning, and footwork exercises. Theapparatus200 may be utilized at many locations on a tennis court such as for 3D targets mentioned above or placed quickly next to anapparatus100 to create additional gaps and physical targets for the players. Furthermore,several apparatuses200 may be utilized simultaneously when a net is not available. For example, when it is raining or too cold to play outdoors, but an indoor gymnasium or field house is available except without a tennis net, the players and coach may set up one ormultiple apparatuses200 in the gymnasium or field house to continue tennis practice.

In addition, the various components ofapparatus200 may be made so as to generally resemble a practice dummy. That is,upper segment110 may be modified so as to resemble the head and torso of a practice dummy, with thelower segment130 and stand220 made to resemble the practice dummy's legs and feet. By doing so, additional interest may be generated for the player or person training with thetraining apparatus200.

Thestand220 of theapparatus200 may be made of a solid, weighted material, such as wood, plastic or metal, and is comprised of two ormore stand posts222 which extend upward from astand base226 of theapparatus200. The stand posts may be approximately 39 to 42 inches in height, to allow for adjustments to the key heights of a tennis net, which are 36, 39, and 42 inches, and are set apart from one another to facilitate the pivotal connection of theapparatus100 therebetween. Thestand base226 may be roughly 11″ in width and 14″ in length, with the feet and toes directly above and measuring roughly 7″ in width and 10″ in length, and with the width of the base extending between the two stand posts222. Astand brace224 is located near the top portion of thestand220 between the stand posts222, and provides support and rigidity to the top of thestand220, and further provides protection to theapparatus100. Thestand brace224 may be connected to the stand posts via screws or other similar connection devices. Thestand brace224 further controls the range of motion ofapparatus100 so thatapparatus100 does not over-rotate in any direction. Thestand brace224 may also be made of a rigid material such as wood, plastic or metal, and have a soft fabric covering to prevent damage from contact between theapparatus100, standbrace224, and other objects. Thestand brace224 may also be constructed of other durable materials, such as rubber, to increase safety in the event that a child or other person comes into contact with thestand brace224, or if thestand brace224 comes into contact with the ground or other object.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, thestand brace224 may generally be circular or elliptical in shape and may be colored to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance to thetraining apparatus200. Without astand brace224,apparatus100 would swing wildly about when theupper segment110 is struck by a ball or some other force.Stand brace224 additionally provides a counterweight to the top of thestand220 so as to provide resistive forces and stability to theoverall training apparatus200 when theapparatus100 is struck.

The stand-alone training apparatus200 further includes a set of increasing sizedinterconnected base plates240. Whenapparatus200 only utilizes thestand220 and attachedstand base226,apparatus200 may only pendulum back and forth to a limited degree. Thus,base plates240 further increase the range of motion ofapparatus200, and corresponding force for which it may receive.

Thebase plates240 provide thetraining apparatus200 with the ability to spring back to a neutral, resting state when the apparatus is struck during a training session. In particular, a novel aspect of the training apparatus is the degree of tilt or deflection which may be sustained by the apparatus and still return to the neutral position without falling over. As thebase plates240 are detachable in nature, it is contemplated that a greater or fewer number ofbase plates240 may be attached to theapparatus200, depending on the desired amount of spring back of theapparatus200. The greater the number ofbase plates240 utilized, the greater the degree of tilt thatapparatus200 is able to sustain without falling over.Base plates240 will be described in further detail below.

AtFIG. 12, another embodiment of the stand-alone training apparatus200 is shown. In this embodiment,target210 has been removed and replaced with atraining extension170. Thus, as can be seen inFIG. 12,apparatus200 is versatile and able to utilize a variety of different configurations. For instance,extensions170 similar to those shown inFIG. 10 may be utilized to simply increase the width oftraining apparatus100 located withintraining apparatus200. Or anextension170 may be added to the top ofapparatus100 to increase the length of theupper segment110 and provide for additional training objectives. Offsetweights172 may be located on thelower segment130 if a significant number oftraining extensions170 are attached toupper segment110.

Turning toFIG. 13, an exploded view of the stand-alone training apparatus200 is shown. In this view, it can be more clearly seen the various components oftraining apparatus200, in particular the series ofbase plates240. The series ofbase plates240 may be comprised of anupper base plate242,center base plate244, and alower base plate246. In a preferred embodiment, theupper plate242 may be approximately 16″×16″, thecenter plate244 may be approximately 18″×24″, and thelower plate246 may be approximately 24″×30.″ Thus, it can be clearly seen thatbase plates240 may be comprised of different sized plates, with each successive plate being larger than the previous one. Eachbase plate240 may be constructed of a semi-rigid, flexible material to withstand flexing and bending during use. Furthermore, the flexibility ofbase plates240 allows for a “spring-back” quality to allow forbase plates240 to returnapparatus200 to a neutral position after being struck.

Additionally, eachbase plate240 may have a set of slopedpads256 located along the bottom side of the plate. The slopedpads256 are thicker near the edges of thebase plates240, and gradually slope toward the bottom surface of theplate240, creating a downward sloping angle. This design of the slopedpads256 further controls the forward and backward pendulum motion ofapparatus200 after it has been struck by a strike from a ball or a punch from a person. This provides stability to the overall apparatus. Furthermore, the bottom ofstand base226 has a sloped pad256 (not shown) which is thicker in the center ofbase226 and gradually slopes towards the bottom surface ofbase226. This sloping action is the inverse of the design of the slopedpads256 located on thebase plates240. Thus, instead of stabilizingapparatus200, the slopedpad256 on the bottom ofbase226 encourages a quick imbalance ofapparatus200 once it is struck by an object to encourage a faster start and reaction to the desired pendulum motion.Sloped pads256 are preferably made of a soft, cushioned material to help protect the surface of a tennis court, gym, or other indoor location from scratches or other damage that may be potentially caused by the bottom ofbase plates240.

In an embodiment, thebase plates240 may be generally square shaped, or any other shape capable of providing strength, flexibility and resistive forces sufficient for controlling the pendulum motion ofapparatus200 and stand220. Thus,plates240 may be stacked in a pyramid setup to provide greater stability for theoverall apparatus200. Further, as can be seen in this figure, standbase226 may be attached centrally to the top ofupper base plate242. Additionally in this figure,apparatus100 is seen detached from the rest of the stand-alone training apparatus200, withpivot rods204 disengaged from themetallic slots202.

Next,FIG. 14 illustratesbase plates240 and stand base226 during a pendulum motion and the interconnections therebetween. In the embodiment shown,

plates

246,244 and242 are successively layered such that thelargest plate246 is lowest and thesmallest plate242 is highest, with themiddle base plate244 inserted in between. Each base plate is generally located in the center of the base plate below.Stand base226 is then set atop theupper base plate242. Eachbase plate240 may be connected to an adjacent base plate or thestand base226 via one or moreresistive connectors250, which independently linkadjacent base plates240 together. In a preferred embodiment, theresistive connectors250 may be metallic wires. Theresistive connectors250 may be attached to an edge of a base plate and to a corresponding edge of an adjacent base plate. Theresistive connectors250 may be connected on opposite sides of a select base plate, or may be connected on all sides of a base plate. Depending on the particular base plates being connected, the length of theresistive connectors250 may vary to provide the appropriate amount of resistive potential.

In preferred embodiments of theapparatus200, the lengths of theresistive connectors250 are carefully measured to allowapparatus200 to pendulum to its maximum range allowable by theupper base plate242 before activating the strength, weight, and resistance of any of

base plates

244 and246 below. The elastic qualities of theresistive connectors250 thus provide a spring-back tension to the plates when the stand-alone training apparatus200 is struck, thereby causing theapparatus200 to return to a neutral position more quickly. The multi-level design ofbase plates240 also provides for enhanced springback potential depending on the level of force used to strike theapparatus200. Further,fabric corner brakes254 help to hold the base plate above in the general center of aparticular base plate240.

Thebase plates240 additionally make use ofside rails252 andcorner brakes254 located on the top surfaces ofplates240. Side rails252 are located onbase plate242 and help to prevent sideways motion of thestand220 during the pendulum action ofapparatus200. Thecorner brakes254 are located on the corner edges of the

base plates

244 and246, and serve to slow the motion of the preceding plate above. Thecorner brakes254 may be made of a stable, strong and durable material such as the Velcro® loop material, rubber or plastic. Thecorner brakes254 may be attached tobase plates240 by using adhesives or may be preferably formed through a molding process. The corner brakes further help to align theupper base plate242 andmiddle base plate244. Additionally, side rails252 andcorner brakes254 may be expanded in size and height to add more stability and control of the pendulum motion if desired.

As shown in the current figure,apparatus200 has been tilted to an angle of approximately 150 degrees from horizontal, without completely falling over on its side. Instead, the combination ofbase plates240 and attachedelastic rope250 allows the apparatus to rock back and forth on thelower base plate246, eventually returning completely to a neutral position. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the stand-alone training apparatus200 may be struck and tilted up to an angle of approximately 160 degrees from normal without falling over.

AtFIG. 15, therein is shown a front view of thestand brace224, standposts222, and pivotrods204 oftraining assembly200, which pivotally mounts thetraining apparatus100 to thestand220. As can be seen in this figure, pivotrods204 have been inserted throughmetallic slots202 oriented laterally on opposite sides of the mid-section120 ofapparatus100 via apivot mechanism201, such as anattachment strap208, which is made of similar material to theattachment strap140. In other embodiments, the pivot mechanism may attach themetallic slots202 to the mid-section via a clamp or adhesives. Becausemetallic slots202 are larger than thepivot rods204, and becausepivot rods204 are longer than themetallic slots202, themetallic slots202 ofapparatus100 are able to slide left and right in addition to rolling over thepivot rods204. Therefore, a player may punch theupper segment110 orextensions170 not only from the front or back side but may also punch theextension170 from the side of theapparatus200, thereby adding variety to a punching workout.

Further, the ends of thepivot rods204 have been inserted into a set of double barrel holes230. The double barrel holes230 are generally made of a rigid material and circular in structure with a recess or cavity in the center to allow for the insertion of an end of the pivot rods. Corresponding sets of double barrel holes230 are mounted on the stand posts222, facing one another, and operate to restrain thepivot rods204 and provide a pivotal connection with thestand220. Preferably, the double barrel holes230 are mounted in positions at approximately 34 to 41 inches from thestand base226 to ensure that theupper segment110 ofapparatus200 may match several preferred heights of the net, which are 36, 39, and 42 inches from ground level to the top of thenet tape160. Further, as seen inFIG. 15, and detailed inFIG. 16, multiple selectable heights may be provided on thestand post222 by the inclusion of several sets of double barrel holes230.

The unique feature of the use of two separate horizontal pivot axes provided by themetallic slots202,pivot rods204, and double barrel holes230 allows forapparatus100 to utilize its own weight to swing or otherwise pendulum back to a neutral position after theupper segment110 has been struck. If thetraining apparatus200 had only a single horizontal pivot axis attached to theapparatus100, thenapparatus100 may not necessarily return to a neutral, substantially upright state after theupper segment110 has been struck. Positioning of thepivot rods204 parallel but separate from each other help prevent theupper segment110 andlower segment130 ofapparatus200 from making contact withstand brace224 during the pendulum motion by restricting the degree to which theupper segment110 andlower segment130 ofapparatus200 may pendulum. The pivot system therefore allows the segments to pendulum approximately 40 degrees from neutral in either direction. The stand posts222 similarly may also lean forward and backward approximately 75 degrees from neutral, yet still be able to recover back to the resting/upright position. Together, the degree of pivot from theapparatus100 and thestand220 allow for a pendulum motion of approximately 115 degrees from horizontal without allowing for theapparatus200 to tip over and fall to the ground.

FIG. 16 provides a side angle view of thetraining apparatus200, illustrating a preferred method for insertion of thepivot rods204 to the double barrel holes230. As seen in this figure, the pair ofpivot rods204 is inserted through an open side of the double barrel holes230 mounted on astand post222. In the embodiment of thestand post222 shown, multiple sets of double barrel holes230 are provided, corresponding to different vertical heights that may be selectable by a player or coach. After inserting thepivot rods204 through the double barrel holes230 located onstand post222, the pivot rods are then threaded through themetallic slots202 located on opposite sides of the mid-section120 ofapparatus100. Thepivot rods204 are then engaged with a second set of double barrel holes230 located on the opposingstand post222, at the same horizontal height as the first set of double barrel holes. The second set of double barrel holes230 have a stop located on the opposite side of thestand post222, thereby preventing the pivot rods from extending beyond the opposingstand post222. Abarrel hole cover232 may then be rotated into position to cover the initial set of double barrel holes, thereby securing thepivot rods204 in place. A latching mechanism holds thebarrel hole cover232 in place.

Returning toFIG. 12, theextension170 as shown allows for training involving punching or otherwise striking theapparatus100 with a person's hands. The segments of theextension170 over themiddle region116 is there mainly to absorb the direct punches while the extension over thetop region114 andbottom region118 provides an additional safety feature in the event the pendulum motion of theapparatus100 causes the upper or lower segments to pendulum back and strike the person punching it. Optionally, a boxer may don boxing gloves as further protection to the hands, and to further enhance the training experience. As expected, when theextension170 located onapparatus200 is struck,apparatus200 will pendulum back and forth according to the amount of force provided by the strike. The pendulum motion will force a boxer to move out of the way in order not to get struck by the returningupper segment110 andlower segment130. Thus, this embodiment ofapparatus200 may provide for a full body workout.

Referring toFIG. 11, theremovable target210 allows for a person to practice throwing a ball (such as a football or softball) for striking thetarget210. Thetarget210 may be attached to a semi-rigid backing (not shown) so as to withstand the forces of a ball strike. In this manner, a person may use the apparatus for additional training beyond merely the sport of tennis.

Operation of the Invention

Having thusly described the general structure of thetraining apparatus100, a detailed description of the use and functionality of the present invention will now be discussed. The present invention provides a simple, yet challenging and engaging target for a tennis player to practice shot placement of a tennis ball. Thetraining apparatus100 utilizes the force and energy of a moving tennis ball such that when the tennis ball comes in contact with theupper segment110 of thetraining apparatus100, the force and energy of the moving tennis ball are transferred to thetraining apparatus100, causing it to pendulum back and forth and cause the sound means114 to simultaneously provide a pleasant ringing sound. This pendulum motion of thetraining apparatus100 adds interest and fun to the players, especially since the human brain is instinctively hardwired to notice a moving object relative to a non-moving object such as the net. The pleasant ringing sound acts as a feedback and also conditions/encourages players to feel anticipation, excitement, and to stay more focused on training objectives when aiming for theupper segment110. After being struck, thetraining apparatus100 eventually pendulums back to an upright, neutral state as a result of the unique combination of thelower segment110,attachment strap140 andsound generator150.

While thetraining apparatus100 may ideally be struck by a tennis ball during a training session, thetraining apparatus100 may simply be used as a point of reference for a player, and need not be explicitly struck to achieve certain training objectives. Further, the present invention may be utilized in practice drills for one player or a group of players in combination with a coach and/or ball machine.

By way of example, one ormore training apparatuses100 may be set up at a desired training location, such as

apparatuses

102,104, and106 shown inFIG. 1. For a maximum synergistic effect, at least threetraining apparatuses100 may be simultaneously used, with eachtraining apparatus100 having a differentupper segment110 color, such as blue, red, or yellow. Furthermore, eachseparate training apparatus100 may have different written new rules, challenges, or notes placed permanently on thelower segment110 of thetraining apparatus100. Thus, each differently colored apparatus may be utilized for a specific training purpose, as dictated by the writtentext132 located thereon.

During practice drills, players may utilize thetraining apparatus100 in numerous ways. For example, in a first round, players may hit three shots, one shot at each of the separateupper segments110. In the next round, players may hit two shots through the gaps between thetraining apparatuses100; one shot through the left gap and one shot through the right gap created. A second training method may be for players to hit one down-the-line passing shot and one down-the-line drop shot at the spacing outside aleftmost training apparatus100; then, in the next round, hit one down-the-line passing shot and one down-the-line drop shot at the spacing outside therightmost training apparatus100. A third training method is for players to hit three shots to the spacing directly and slightly over each of the separateupper segments110. Thus, thetraining apparatus100 creates numerous combinations of shots to improve players' overall skills. In addition, a written challenge which may form a portion of the writtentext132 may be affixed to thetraining apparatus100 to help make the practice drills more interesting, fun and motivating to the players.

After playing a number of games, players may wish to move thetraining apparatuses100 to different locations to challenge their ball direction and accuracy skills, thereby improving their overall tennis skills. As the players play more games and matches, they will not focus exclusively on hitting theupper segment110, but will start to focus on hitting the spacings to the outside of theupper segments110, and the spacings above theupper segments110 to win the points in a more traditional way, thus improving their overall abilities.

The present invention provides highly visible but very challenging practice to hit targets during a point, especially from the baseline. Thus, players can aim at theupper segment110 targets to improve accuracy, height control, and ball direction while still being able to continue a long rally. Being able to periodically hit theupper segment110 provides sufficient satisfaction to keep the players motivated and challenged. With effectiveness and cost efficiency considerations, the preferred width of the hitting surface of thetraining apparatus100 may be approximately 1 inch wide and having a curved shape with an approximately 3 inch circumference. To increase the challenge,training apparatuses100 with a narrower width may be used, so long as the apparatus is able to pendulum and not be damaged when the tennis ball makes contact.Training apparatuses100 with wider, larger target areas may be used, particularly for younger players, in particular,training apparatuses100 withattachments170.

As previously described, thetraining apparatus100 psychologically associates the individual player's standard length tennis racket to theupper segment110. Most tennis players are not aware of the optimal net clearance height or the net clearance height of most of their shots. Instead, players generally tend to focus on where the tennis ball lands rather than how high it passes over the net. However, players tend to have at least a working knowledge and feel for their tennis racket from the many hours of practice, playing matches, adjusting of the strings on their racket face, carrying the racket at the throat, and observation of the condition of their racket grip. If asked about the length of their tennis racket, players most likely can say how long it is in inches or indicate with their hands an approximate length of their tennis racket. Thus, to utilize players' understanding of their tennis racket length, the present invention creates a length on thetraining apparatus100 that matches the length of their tennis racket and places that length over the net as the height of theupper segment110 to psychologically associate their tennis racket to the length of theupper segment110.

To provide a more exact measurement, the players may line-up their individual tennis rackets onto theupper segment110 prior to attaching thetraining apparatus100 to the tennisnet tape116. Assuming players are utilizing at least threeseparate training apparatuses100, each player would have his or her own customizedtraining apparatus100. For instance, for a doubles match, it is likely that two of the players would have the same standard length tennis racket, so the use of threetraining apparatuses100 would be sufficient for all of the players to each have theirown training apparatus100. Each of thetraining apparatuses100 may be preferably colored either all blue, red, or yellow to the 27 inch mark; however, theupper segment110 may be adjusted up or down about 3 inches from the 27 inch mark, making the range of theupper segment110 to be between 24 to 30 inches in height. In the present invention, the measurement of theupper segment110 creates a psychological association and resulting sense of comfort and sense of certainty about key targets, gaps, spacings, net clearance heights, and reference points that each of the players gradually obtains after seeing his or her tennis racket length represented as anupper segment110.

Before a practice match, players may place thetraining apparatus100 on locations over the net that they would like to aim at most of the time. As players play the match, they will attempt to hit theupper segments110 in order to score points; however, the actual occurrence of hits may be relatively low. As players improve upon their skills, the frequency upon which theupper segments110 are struck may gradually increase. The invention thus simulates a regular tennis match to a high degree since it can be utilized by the players on both sides of the net while playing a regular singles or doubles match. Once thetraining apparatuses100 are set up along the tennisnet tape160, players may play a regular practice match, which includes switching sides at odd number games.

For most practice sessions, the present invention provides the best overall value when at least threetraining apparatuses100 are simultaneously utilized for practice matches and drills so that players may hit many combinations of shots without unnecessary interruptions during the point or drill. The use of threetraining apparatuses100 createupper segment110 targets, gaps, spacings, and height awareness that are important in simulating match play, and the use of threetraining apparatuses100 strikes an overall balance in effectiveness, efficiency, and cost factors. However, a greater or fewer number oftraining apparatuses100 may be simultaneously utilized at the players/coaches' discretion, depending on factors such as time constraints, practice goals, and other unique circumstances of the practice. In general,fewer training apparatuses100 would be easier to manage and would cost less to purchase, but for most situations, the use offewer training apparatuses100 would not be as effective and would not create enoughupper segment110 targets, small enough gaps, and spacings to maximize available shot combinations during a point or drill.

In other embodiments, up to nine of thetraining apparatuses100 may be positioned along the tennisnet tape160, which would increase the number ofupper segment110 targets, smaller gaps and shot combinations for the players to fine-tune their skills even more during a point or drill. However, asmore apparatuses100 are simultaneously utilized, additional issues regarding the weight upon the tennisnet tape160, cluttering of the net with too many apparatuses, additional time for setup and takedown of the additional apparatuses, and increased costs may counteract the benefits of increasing the number of targets.

With regard to the stand-alone training apparatus200, theapparatus200 is meant for use without having to attach thetraining apparatus100 to a tennisnet tape160. Thus,training apparatus200 may be utilized indoors or whenever a tennis net is not conveniently available, such as during warm-up while waiting for a tennis court currently occupied by other players. Thetraining apparatus200 may be configured withremovable targets210, which may be located on opposite sides of the apparatus. As with thetraining apparatus100,training apparatus200 may incorporate similar training objectives, such as striking the target with a tennis ball in order to improve shot placement and accuracy. When struck,apparatus100 ofapparatus200 will pendulum back and forth, as well as provide a pleasant ringing sound by thesound generator150.

Further, theapparatus200 may be utilized in non-tennis training related methods. For instance, a person may simply toss a baseball or tennis ball at thetarget210 to have theapparatus200 pendulum back and forth when struck. Or a person may wear boxing gloves and the like, and utilize the training apparatus as a punching bag of sorts, wherein the objective is to knock thetraining apparatus200. As previously described, because thetraining apparatus200 is very difficult to knock over owing to the significant degree of tilt it is capable of withstanding, it is ideally suited to being struck repeatedly, while eventually returning to a neutral state.

Additionally, adjusting the height ofapparatus100 within thetraining apparatus200 by way of thepivot rods204 and double barrel holes230 provides varying degrees of difficulty with respect to how difficult theapparatus200 may be to knock over. For instance, by utilizing the lowest level double barrel holes230, the degree of difficulty may be more than when the highest level double barrel holes230 are used. This is due to the lower center of gravity of theapparatus200 when the lower double barrel holes230 are used. Other options to increase or decrease difficulty and training objectives may be to increase or decrease the length of theapparatus100 mounted intraining apparatus200, with longer lengths ofapparatus100 leading to increased pendulum activity. Or, the number ofbase plates240 may be adjusted to further increase or decrease the pendulum ability of thetraining apparatus200. For instance, by utilizing three

base plates

242,244, and246, thetraining apparatus200 will be very difficult to knock over. However, by successively removing thelower base plates240, thetraining apparatus200 will become gradually easier to knock over.

Thetraining apparatus200 is also capable of withstanding strikes from other sporting objects, such as soccer balls and footballs, without toppling over. Thus, thetraining apparatus200 may be used for many sports other than tennis.

It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Having thus described the exemplary embodiments, it is noted that the embodiments disclosed are illustrative rather than limiting in nature and that a wide range of variations, modifications, changes, and substitutions are contemplated in the foregoing disclosure and, in some instances, some features of the present invention may be employed without a corresponding use of the other features. Many such variations and modifications may be considered desirable by those skilled in the art based upon a review of the foregoing description of preferred embodiments. Accordingly, it is contemplated that the appended claims will cover any such modifications or embodiments that fall within the true scope of the invention.